Chicken Enchilada Skillet Flavorful One-Pan Meal
Are you ready for a dinner that’s not just tasty but also quick to make? This Chicken Enchilada Skillet is a flavorful one-pan meal that delivers bold Mexican flavors without the fuss. You’ll find juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and zesty spices, all in one dish. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe makes clean-up a breeze. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 1 medium yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic
Additional Ingredients
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Fresh cilantro leaves
– Lime wedges
For this Chicken Enchilada Skillet, you need simple but tasty ingredients. The star is the chicken. I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking. Start with a tablespoon of olive oil. This oil adds flavor and helps cook the chicken well.
Next, grab a medium yellow onion and two cloves of garlic. These two bring great aroma and taste to our dish. I love using fresh garlic for its punchy flavor.
Now, let’s add some extra goodness. A can of black beans is a must. They add protein and fiber. Then, we need a can of enchilada sauce. This gives the dish its classic taste.
We also want a cup of frozen corn. It adds a nice sweetness. Lastly, a cup of diced tomatoes brings freshness. You can use fresh or canned, depending on what you have.
For seasoning, ground cumin and chili powder are key. They give the dish depth and warmth. Finally, fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges will elevate the meal. They add brightness and flavor right when you serve it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Chicken
First, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add one pound of diced chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir it often until it turns white and is no longer pink in the center. After cooking, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add one medium yellow onion that you finely chopped, along with two minced cloves of garlic. Sauté these for about 3 to 4 minutes. Keep stirring until the onions turn soft and clear. This step adds a lovely aroma to your dish.
Combine Ingredients
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add one can of drained and rinsed black beans, one cup of frozen corn, and one cup of diced tomatoes. Don’t forget to pour in one can of enchilada sauce, one teaspoon of ground cumin, and one teaspoon of chili powder. Sprinkle in some salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything well to mix the flavors evenly.
Simmer for Flavors
Next, lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. This step helps the flavors blend nicely. Stir occasionally to stop the food from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
Prepare for Broiling
While the mixture simmers, preheat your oven’s broiler. After simmering, sprinkle one and a half cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top. This will create a delicious cheesy layer.
Broil to Perfection
Place the skillet under the broiler for about 3 to 5 minutes. Broil until the cheese becomes bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Serve and Garnish
When finished, carefully take the skillet out of the oven. Let it cool for a minute. Then, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges. This adds a fresh touch and brightens the dish. Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Enchilada Skillet!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Chicken
To cook chicken perfectly, use fresh, high-quality chicken. Cut it into small, even pieces. This helps it cook faster and more evenly. Heat your skillet and add olive oil before adding the chicken. Cook until there is no pink left, about 5 to 7 minutes. For added flavor, marinate the chicken. You can use lime juice, cumin, or even a bit of salsa. This will make your chicken even tastier.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the flavor of your dish with extra spices. I love adding smoked paprika or coriander for a unique taste. For heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount, then taste. This way, you control the heat level. If you like it spicy, go bold!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Enchilada Skillet with sides like rice or a fresh salad. Cornbread or tortilla chips also complement the dish well. For drinks, try a cold margarita or iced tea. To make serving special, consider using the skillet as a serving dish. This adds a rustic touch and keeps everything warm. Place lime wedges around the skillet for a pop of color and extra zest!
Variations
Vegetarian Option
For a tasty meatless version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or mushrooms. You can use one can of chickpeas or about two cups of diced mushrooms. This change keeps the dish hearty and filling. Cook the veggies just until tender to ensure they don’t get mushy. The cooking time remains about the same, so you won’t need to adjust much. Just remember, using these ingredients will add a different flavor profile, but it’s still delicious!
Different Proteins
If you want to try different proteins, turkey and beef work well. Use one pound of ground turkey or beef in place of chicken. When using turkey, cook it until it’s no longer pink, which takes about 7-8 minutes. For ground beef, it may take a bit longer, around 8-10 minutes. Drain the fat after browning for a healthier dish. Both options add a rich taste that complements the enchilada sauce.
Customizable Ingredients
Feel free to add seasonal vegetables for extra color and nutrients. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are excellent choices. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients. They will cook down nicely in the skillet. For toppings, think about adding fresh avocado or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings enhance the flavor and create a creamy texture that pairs well with the spicy enchiladas.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store your chicken enchilada skillet in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. If you plan to eat it later, cool it down before storing. This helps prevent moisture.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the chicken enchilada skillet, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to seal it tightly. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. This keeps the texture nice.
Reheating Tips
Reheat your enchilada skillet in a skillet on low heat. Stir it often to keep it from sticking. You can also use the microwave. Cover it with a damp paper towel to avoid drying out. Add a splash of water if it looks dry. This keeps it moist and tasty.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. This saves time and makes cooking easier. When using pre-cooked chicken, just add it to the skillet with other ingredients. You may need to reduce cooking time since the chicken is already cooked. This can help keep the dish juicy and tender.
What can I substitute for enchilada sauce?
If you need a substitute for enchilada sauce, you can make your own. Mix tomato sauce with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. You can also blend salsa with some broth for a quick option. This gives a fresh flavor to your skillet.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your dish, try adding diced jalapeños. You can also use a hotter chili powder or cayenne pepper. For extra spice, add a splash of hot sauce to the mix. Adjust the heat to match your taste.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just portion it out in containers for easy meals all week. Reheat when ready to enjoy a tasty meal.
How do I store leftovers?
To keep leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, make sure it’s heated through for the best taste.
This blog post covered how to create a tasty chicken enchilada skillet. We discussed essential ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips. You can customize this dish with different proteins or flavors. Store leftovers safely to enjoy later. Don’t forget to try out the variations for unique twists! With these instructions, you can make a dish that’s both simple and delicious. Enjoy your cooking and the delight of sharing this meal.
![- 8 corn tortillas - 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 small zucchini, diced - 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 1/2 cups enchilada sauce - 1 cup shredded cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro for garnish You can swap black beans for pinto or kidney beans. You might also try non-dairy cheese if you want a vegan option. If you need gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas. These swaps keep the recipe flexible and fun! Each serving has about 300 calories. You get protein from beans and fiber from veggies. Black beans boost heart health, while spinach adds iron. Corn gives you energy, making these enchiladas not just tasty but also good for you. - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). - In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. - Add 1 diced red bell pepper and 1 small diced zucchini. - Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften. Stir often to avoid sticking. - Next, stir in 1 cup of drained black beans, 1 cup of corn, and 1 cup of chopped spinach. - Cook for 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts. - Season the mix with 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. - Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes. - Pour 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce into a baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. - Warm 8 corn tortillas in the microwave for 20 seconds, or heat them in a skillet. - Take one tortilla and spoon a portion of the filling into the center. - Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top, then roll it up tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. - Repeat this for all the tortillas until the filling is used up. - Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the assembled enchiladas. - Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of the sauce. - Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Look for melted and bubbly cheese. - Allow the enchiladas to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with fresh cilantro if you like! For the full recipe, check the details above. - Add smokiness with chipotle peppers: Chipotle peppers add a rich, smoky taste. You can use them in the filling or mix them into the sauce. Just chop a few and add them to your veggies while cooking. This will elevate the flavor profile. - Use fresh herbs for garnish: Fresh herbs brighten up your dish. I love adding cilantro or parsley on top before serving. It adds color and freshness, making the enchiladas look even more appealing. - Importance of softening tortillas: Softening the tortillas is key. If they are too hard, they will crack when you roll them. Heat them in the microwave for 20 seconds or warm them on a skillet. This makes them easy to roll and fill without breaking. - Tips for perfectly melted cheese: To get that perfect melt, use a cheese blend with good melting properties. Cheddar and Monterey Jack work great. Add a little extra cheese on top when baking for a delicious, bubbly finish. - Pair with side dishes: Serve your enchiladas with rice or beans on the side. These help balance the meal and add more protein. You can also serve them with a simple salad for extra crunch. - Ideas for toppings: Top your enchiladas with sour cream or guacamole. These creamy toppings add richness and flavor. You can also sprinkle some diced onions or jalapeños for extra spice. These tips will help you make your vegetarian enchiladas even more delicious. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can make your enchiladas even better by changing the filling. - Adding roasted vegetables: Roasting veggies like carrots, eggplant, or butternut squash adds depth. The sweet, caramelized flavor makes the filling more exciting. - Using different kinds of cheese: Try mixing cheeses like queso fresco or pepper jack. Each cheese brings its unique taste. This change can keep your enchiladas fresh and fun. The sauce can change the whole dish. - Homemade enchilada sauce recipe: Making your own sauce is simple and rewarding. Blend tomatoes, chili powder, and spices for a rich flavor. This way, you control the heat and taste. - Alternatives like verde sauce: If you like a fresh twist, try verde sauce made with tomatillos. It adds a nice tangy kick that contrasts well with the cheese and veggies. You can adjust the recipe to fit various diets. - Vegan version of enchiladas: Swap cheese for a nut-based cheese or leave it out. Use more beans and veggies to fill the tortillas. You still get a hearty meal without animal products. - Low-carb or keto adaptations: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas. This swap keeps the taste while reducing carbs. You can still enjoy the flavors of enchiladas without the extra carbs. For a complete guide on making these delicious meals, check out the Full Recipe. To store leftovers, first, let the enchiladas cool down. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Glass or plastic containers work well. I prefer glass for easy reheating. If you want to freeze enchiladas, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date. To reheat frozen enchiladas, remove them from the freezer. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. In the fridge, these enchiladas last about 3 to 5 days. Always check for signs of spoilage. Look for off smells, mold, or changes in color. If you see any of these, it’s best to throw them out. Enjoy your tasty vegetarian enchiladas with confidence! For the full recipe, check the earlier sections. To prevent soggy enchiladas, apply the sauce wisely. Use a thin layer on the bottom of your dish. Do not drown the rolled enchiladas in sauce. Pour the rest of the sauce on top after filling them. Bake them just right. Overcooking can cause sogginess. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. This keeps them firm and tasty. Yes, you can use flour tortillas. They are softer and easier to roll. However, corn tortillas add a nice flavor. They are also gluten-free. Flour tortillas can get too soft and break. Each type has its charm. Choose based on your taste and needs. Many sides pair well with vegetarian enchiladas. Try Mexican rice for a classic touch. Beans add protein and fiber. A fresh salad can balance the meal. Guacamole or sour cream makes a great dip. You can also serve with a refreshing drink. Consider agua fresca or a light beer. These sides enhance the flavor of your enchiladas. Enjoy exploring different pairings! This blog post covered all you need for delicious vegetarian enchiladas. We discussed key ingredients, from black beans to fresh spinach. I shared tips on prepping and cooking, plus variations for your taste. You learned how to store leftovers and reheat them. These enchiladas are tasty, healthy, and easy to make. Enjoy trying different flavors and ingredients. Whether for a quick dinner or a party, these enchiladas will impress everyone. Now, get in the kitchen and start cooking!](https://joymealplan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/0bc30ee8-fb20-468c-811c-2f42a5691433-768x768.webp)
![To make garlic butter steak bites, you need a few key ingredients: - 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) - Lemon wedges, for serving The sirloin steak is tender and has great flavor. Cut it into small pieces to cook quickly. The unsalted butter adds richness, while garlic gives a wonderful aroma. Smoked paprika adds a nice touch of warmth. Salt and pepper enhance the taste. Fresh parsley brightens the dish, and lemon wedges give a zesty kick. You can add a few optional items to elevate your meal: - Fresh parsley - Lemon wedges - Side dish suggestions Fresh parsley not only looks nice but also adds a fresh taste. Lemon wedges balance the richness of the steak. For sides, consider serving with a salad, rice, or roasted veggies. These add texture and flavor to your plate. You can find the full recipe for garlic butter steak bites to help guide you in creating this dish. First, pat the steak pieces dry with a paper towel. This step helps the steak sear well, giving it a nice crust. Next, cut the steak into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform chunks, so they cook evenly. This makes each bite tender and flavorful. Now, let’s melt the butter. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Wait until it starts to sizzle. This means it's hot enough. Once ready, add the steak bites to the skillet. Spread them in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; this helps them sear nicely. Next, sprinkle smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the steak. These spices add great flavor. Cook the steak bites for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Adjust the time based on how you like your steak. Remove them when they reach your desired doneness. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds. Keep stirring until the garlic smells good but doesn't brown. This step creates a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s time to combine the steak and sauce. Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet. Toss them in the garlic butter sauce, coating each piece well. The sauce adds moisture and flavor. To finish, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the steak bites with finely chopped parsley. This adds color and freshness. Serve them with lemon wedges. The juice from the lemon adds a zesty touch that brightens the dish. Enjoy your delicious garlic butter steak bites! For the detailed recipe, check the Full Recipe section. To get a great sear on your steak bites, space is key. Do not overcrowd the pan. When the pieces are too close, they steam instead of sear. This step makes a big difference in taste. Aim for a single layer in your skillet. For doneness, cook about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the time if you like it more or less done. Use a meat thermometer for best results. A medium steak should reach 145°F. If you want to switch things up, try different cuts of steak. Ribeye or tenderloin works well too. Both offer a nice fat content for flavor. You can also use dairy-free butter if you need it. Look for plant-based options that melt well. They give you that creamy taste without dairy. Want to add more flavor? Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh thyme. Both enhance the taste and give an extra kick. For a pretty plate, stack the steak bites neatly. Drizzle some garlic butter sauce over them. Then, add fresh parsley on top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. The citrus adds a bright burst that pairs nicely with the richness of the steak. This makes your dish both tasty and beautiful. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can cook garlic butter steak bites in different ways. Grilling steak bites: Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high. Thread the steak pieces onto skewers for easy handling. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Always check for your desired doneness. The grill marks will make them look great! Air frying steak bites: The air fryer is a quick option. Set it to 400°F. Toss the steak pieces with garlic butter and spices. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway. You’ll achieve a crispy outside and tender inside. You can make garlic butter steak bites even better with some fun flavors. Adding herbs and spices: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can bring depth. Add them to the garlic butter while it cooks. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add heat if you like spice. Incorporating vegetables: You can add veggies for color and nutrition. Bell peppers or mushrooms work well. Just toss them in the skillet with the steak bites. They soak up that rich garlic butter flavor too. Serving your steak bites can be both fun and creative. Pairing with different sauces: Experiment with sauces like chimichurri or barbecue. A rich steak sauce also complements the bites well. Drizzle the sauce on top or serve it on the side for dipping. Creative side dishes: Think about sides that balance the rich flavor. A fresh salad or roasted veggies can work nicely. For something heartier, serve with mashed potatoes or rice. These will soak up the leftover garlic butter sauce too! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. After you make garlic butter steak bites, let them cool to room temperature. Store the leftovers in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavor fresh. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter to the pan. This will help bring back the juicy flavor. Heat for about 5 minutes, turning the steak bites occasionally. For meal prep, you can freeze steak bites. First, let them cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can stay fresh in the freezer for about three months. To thaw, move them to the fridge the night before you want to eat them. This keeps them safe and tasty. You can also thaw them in the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Garlic butter steak bites last about three days in the fridge. If you freeze them, they last for about three months. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. This will help ensure you enjoy every bite safely. The best steak for steak bites is sirloin. It has great flavor and is tender. Other good choices include ribeye and tenderloin. Both cuts provide a rich taste. They also remain juicy when cooked. If you can, choose grass-fed steak for better flavor and health. Yes, you can make steak bites without garlic. Try using shallots for a mild onion flavor. You can also use herbs like rosemary or thyme for taste. They add fresh notes to the dish. Consider using lemon zest for brightness in the sauce too. To make garlic butter steak bites low-carb, skip the butter and use olive oil. Focus on fresh herbs and spices for flavor. Serve with low-carb veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also pair it with a salad for a balanced meal. Enjoying this dish without bread or rice keeps it low in carbs. Garlic butter steak bites are simple and delicious. You learned about the best ingredients. I shared tips for cooking and storing them. You can customize with different flavors and sides. These bites shine as a hearty meal or snack. Try various cooking methods to find your favorite. Enjoy making this dish your own!](https://joymealplan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/b02e02a2-a549-4d39-b201-7a4183f1f1f0-768x768.webp)